Andrea Adelson

  (4:00 PM)

Greetings and salutations!!! Long time no see!

Andrea Adelson

  (4:00 PM)

Let's get rolling.

Brent (Lousiville)

Since there are no Automatic Qualifiers anymore, what do you think it would would take for a Big East team to go to a BCS bowl. Looking at UofL's schedule, I'd think it'd be a stretch even at 10-2 beating UK and UNC.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:01 PM)

Well, first remember AQ is still around for this year and next year. So if Louisville goes 10-2 and wins the Big East, the Cards are in a BCS game. In the future, what will it take? Undefeated season, maybe they will get lucky with an 11-1 team getting picked as an at-large into one of the elite games.

Doug (Tampa)

A.A glad your back, missed the chats. Can you do me a huge favor. Say it loud, say it over and over" Louisville is going to win the BE this year" Teddy Heisman will have the Cards undefeated. USF has no chance. Thanks!

Andrea Adelson

  (4:02 PM)

Hey Doug, I know you guys are scared to death about the Adelson jinx! Louisville will win the Big East, Boom!

Grant (NYC)

Hi Andrea,i actually like that CUSE will be the underdog again this year in almost every game they play. It seems that Coach Marrone doesnt mind either and i feel that we will have some major upsets this year. The D-Line which some people feel is going to be a major weakness might acutally be a strengh for us this season. The line is quite large for the first time in a long time and have some serious talent coming in from Juco ranks. I know they ended the season last year terrible but is it really not realistic to think they can knock off Northwestern at home to open the season? they seem to be pretty good this year but i think Marrone will have the guys ready to roll come opening day.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:05 PM)

I go back and forth on Syracuse. Of the tough nonconference games, I think Syracuse SHOULD beat Northwestern and Minnesota. I think they are both picked somewhere near the bottom in the Big Ten. Plus, Northwestern is at home so you have to think that is a win. Every Big East game is up for grabs. So if Syracuse can go 3-2 in nonconference and win 3 league games, there is your bowl team. But I am not sure what to make of the OL or the DL. I have my questions about the defensive line because of all the inexperienced players being asked to step in and make contributions. I think Goggins is set to have a good year (check out my feature on him!) but there are so many unknowns up front. I would not be surprised if Syracuse went bowling, but I would not be surprised if it was another losing season, too. See, conflicted!

Kevin (Pittsburgh)

Is there a bigger scumbag then Todd Graham?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:05 PM)

I think you know the answer to that.

Chris Monti (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

More likely scenario: The runner up in the Rutgers training camp competition for the starting QB spot transfers to another school after this season OR the runner up gets a chance to start before the season ends due to the starting QB getting injured or being ineffective? Note: I could see Nova transferring if he doesn't win the job.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:07 PM)

I do not think it would be prudent for whoever loses the starting job to transfer. So much can happen during a season (especially at Rutgers). And where are you going to go in the middle of camp? You are not going to start immediately anywhere else. The best choice would be to ride it out and see how things go when the season ends.

Vic (10th and Diamond (Phila, Pa))

Whats the latest on future Big East expansion?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:07 PM)

There is no latest.

Butch Jones (Cincy)

Andrea, do you enjoy being wrong all the time? Honestly, its not a good look. That said you are definitely Cincy's favorite blogger...always give our fans plenty of material to laugh at...keep up the good work

Andrea Adelson

  (4:08 PM)

Oh you are just so kind, Butch. I am glad I can get laughs out of somebody.

John Doh! (North Korea)

Hi AA. Hope all is well. Do you think the NCAA will uphold the sanctions on UCF? If so, do you think the post season ban will happen this year or next? Which would you rather have if you were O'Leary: Last year in CUSA or first year in the BE?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:09 PM)

There is no way to predict which way the NCAA will go. As for whether it applies to this year or next year, it all depends on how long the appeals process takes. It is not hard to imagine that the reason they are appealing is because GOL knows he has a championship-caliber team this year and would rather have the ban in place next year in a new conference. The postseason ban means no CUSA championship game.

Jay (Rutgers)

You're back! Awesome, my Thursdays are now complete. Reading the practice reports, it seems like RU is practicing more loose and with more swag than ever. Have you noticed a change when you're in contact with the players?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:11 PM)

Thanks, Jay, Good to see you again. I think you are right on the money. When I was out at the spring practice earlier this year, there was a different vibe in the air. Let me just say that Greg Schiano controlled every aspect. Probably a little too much. It is way different with Flood there now. They were playing music at the start of practice in the spring! I think the players are looking forward to the new season.

Ethan (Louisville)

Anything new on the BE champions bowl? Thanks!

Andrea Adelson

  (4:11 PM)

Nothing new. There is no rush to make a decision.

TxCardsFan (John) (Dallas)

Welcome back, Big Guns! Any news about a new Commish?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:13 PM)

Hey! It's Teddy Heisman :) Good to see you again. The Big East expects a commissioner in place by the end of the month so they can lead the new TV negotiations. As for who it is going to be, the Big East is being really tight lipped on the candidates. There are 5 finalists, a few names being mentioned are Nick Carparelli, somebody from MLB, Kevin Weiberg (formerly Pac-12).

Human [via mobile]

KU and Rutgers have new series for 2015 & 2018, so how do you think RU will fare with PSU, Miami, UCLA, Arkansas and KU in the future.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:14 PM)

Too hard to tell at this point because the games are so far into the future. I have no idea how 2013 is going to look, let alone 2015 and 2018!

Vic (10th and Diamond (phila, pa))

Do you invision all 8 Big East teams bowling this year?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:16 PM)

No I do not.

Fisch (Charlotte)

1st, how about Carli Lloyd and the U.S. Women's soccer team!!! Congrats to Rutgers for scheduling Kansas in a home and home series. IMO, that is exactly the type of series Big East teams need more of, mid tier BCS conference teams that are very winnable. Pad the stats without risking the blowout to a powerhouse. Your thoughts?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:17 PM)

Go USA! Woot! Some of my alma mater Gators on that team as well. Anyway, I think it is a step in the right direction, but I also think the Big East has to get games against the Top tier college football teams in order to prove it belongs. No questions asked. IF it means going on the road, so be it.

Manuel (Louisville, KY)

What do you think are the chances of their being multiple teams from the Big East being ranked by the end of the season?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:18 PM)

50-50.

Allan (Louisville)

Much has been said about Rutgers, Louisville, USF, and Cincinnati as teams that could have better-than-expected seasons. In your opinion, which teams do you think are susceptible to a surprisingly disappointing season?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:21 PM)

I have said this a few times, but I think Pitt could have a bad season. I really like Paul Chryst. I think he is going to be a great coach there. But there are so many crazy question marks on that team. I am worried about depth on the OL now with Hollins suspended and Ricketts out for the season. What is going to happen at tackle? What happens to Ray? Is Tino going to be better? Defensively the front seven is a question as well. I think the secondary is one of the best in the Big East but that is about all I can say about the Pitt position groups. I think Pitt could be really good, or miss a bowl altogether.

Bryan (Tampa)

What do you think about WVU being ranked #9 this preseason? You think its a slap in the face to the BE? WVU lost to Cuse badly and tied with two others last year in the BE for first.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:22 PM)

I think WVU would be ranked that high if it was in the Big East.

michael (cincinnati)

andrea i am hearing that louisville is losing recruits because they are still in the big east are you hearing anything else

Andrea Adelson

  (4:24 PM)

I wrote a post on that last week.http://espn.go.com/blog/bigeast/post/_/id/34842/is-big-east-hurting-louisville-in-recruiting

TxCardsFan (John) (Dallas)

Big Guns, any word on Air Force joining? I think they'd make a great addition for geographic reasons, but also because they've been pretty good at football for a few years now.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:25 PM)

Nothing on Air Force. I think AFA is happy with where it is -- does not want to give up its geographic rivalries and still gets to keep games with Navy and Army.

David (NY)

Are you going to attend the Syracuse v. USC game this season?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:25 PM)

I don't get game assignments until the week before so I have no idea!

Richard (California)

I'm new to the Big East. Where can I find more information or a detailed preview of the Big East schools? Thanks

Andrea Adelson

  (4:25 PM)

http://espn.go.com/blog/bigeast

Fisch (Charlotte)

So PITT has already lost Ricketts for the season, is there any chance we can get a late transfer from PSU to bolster the O-Line??? Also, any inside scoop on D. Johnson? More nervous that he wants to visit VT than his interest in OSU.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:26 PM)

I have not heard much recently about Penn State players looking to get out now that practice has started. Pitt's OL is really scaring me now. As for recruiting, it is best to ask the recruiting nation folks when they have their chat. They do a much better job focusing on the recruiting aspect.

bilbo (philly)

what are you expecting from montel harris?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:27 PM)

I think he is going to have a great year. I have heard that he is healthy. I know a lot of folks have wondered about the offensive line, but if he can find a hole, he is going to get his yards.

UConnCrazed (Jesse) (Wolcott, CT)

I know there are a lot of UConn fans opposed to the idea of UConn playing in NJ at Met Life Stadium and I'll admit I originally was too, but the idea has grown on me. IMO, I think this allows UConn not only to schedule some of the "big boys" to play them, but it's also close enough so that fans can drive there and make it practically a home game. On top of increasing the strength of schedule, I think it can help with recruiting, especially in the New York/New Jersey area and generate more interest in the program outside of CT. Yeah it stinks have to go all the way to NJ to see a "home" game, but I think the advantages would far out weigh the disadvantages (especially in terms of $$$). Do you think it would be good idea for UConn to play a mutual sight game against a one of the 4 (not 5 ACC doesn't count) power conferences?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:29 PM)

I think that all depends on the opponent, really. I mean UConn is not going to play Indiana at MetLife Stadium. IF it is a national marquee game, I can see the advantages. But also remember, MetLife would have to show an interest in hosting the game. I know a lot of people wondered whether the Michigan game would be moved, but that is staying in the Rent. I have no problems with that because there is a part of me that believes a school's fan base should have a chance to see a true home game. But if there is an exceptional circumstance, like playing Alabama or something, I say move it to New York.

Bigg Edd (Somerset NJ)

With the recent events at Penn St., will the sancations help the area BE teams (Rutgers, Temple, Uconn) gain some of the area recuits that may have been interested in PSU?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:30 PM)

I don't think it hurts, Bigg Edd. But don't be surprised if Big Ten teams are the first to feel some of the gains. Pitt as well.

Jay (Rutgers)

So what do you prefer personally? East-West split or the 'zipper' concept? 'Zipper' seems good to me what with how weak a west coast only division would be.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:31 PM)

I actually like zipper concept. I used to be a geography person, but I think it adds some intrigue when you split up the natural rivalries, and you get teams into recruiting areas like Texas and Florida more often.

BullDoug (Central TX)

What is more important to the USF Bulls 12th season - BJ Daniels (assuming healthy all season) or the Bull defensive backs stepping up in the fourth quarter? And why?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:32 PM)

BJ. I think the DBs are going to be way better this year. Safety is looking strong. But you know as well as I do that BJ is the X-factor on this team! How BJ goes, so go the Bulls.

Uconn Fan (Machester, CT)

What do u expect from Llye McCombs at rb for uconn this year?Who do u think will start at qb for uconn this year?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:32 PM)

With Nebrich transfer and Cochran injury, it is all but certain Whitmer will start (barring injury). I expect another 1,000 yard season out of McCombs.

bilbo (philly)

out of big east qbs, 1 being best and 8 being worst where would you rank chris coyer?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:33 PM)

You have seen the Big East QBs coming back right! You are going to have to wait for the position rankings, coming soon to a blog near you.

Chris (Hartford)

UConnCrazed is nuts. Playing a "home game" at Giants Stadium (I'll never call it MetLife) is absolutely ridiculous and insulting to UConn fans. But what's even worse is that it continues to give the impression that UConn isn't a big time football program yet.A few years ago Notre Dame tried to pull this with Rutgers and the Scarlet Knights properly told them to get lost.If the Irish want a bigger venue, move the game to the Yale Bowl. Revenue stays in state and stadium is huge. The State University of Connecticut has no place playing a "Home" game in New Jersey.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:34 PM)

Chris, you are also forgetting that UConn stands to make way more $$ playing at MetLife, if the stadium is interested. I do not think it gives the impression that UConn isn't a big-time football program. Have you seen how many big-time football programs play neutral site games lately?

Seamus (Philadelphia)

Remember when Temple beat UConn in 2010, the same year the Huskies were the Big East champs? Why is TU being looked down upon? Does Montel Harris transferring from BC to TU change your mind about where the Owls will end up?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:36 PM)

I think there are a lot of people who wonder whether Temple has the depth to play a Big East schedule week in and week out. One nonconference win against UConn in 2010 is great, but there are no Akrons on the schedule this year, no matter what you may think of the Big East. I do not think Temple is going 3-8 this season, mind you. I think Temple will do better than some think. I expect five to six wins.

Jay (Rutgers)

Your colleague Tom Luginbill recently said on TV that the RU vs Arkansas game this year is one to watch. Why does he have to make me even more hyped this year? My blood pressure may be taking a hit this year.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:36 PM)

Does he need to say that to get you hyped?!

green1us (trenton, nj)

When it come to qb at RU I am back and forth but believes that Dodd will win the job. But really concern is the o-line. Has there been any encouraging news about it. And also who in your eyes is a player or players that we a fans should pay attention too.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:38 PM)

Well, the encouraging news is that Flood believes he has some real talent, and even some depth. I know he has moved guys around all spring, but he wants to have his five in place pretty soon so they can start getting some chemistry going. The add of RJ Dill is huge. Kaleb Johnson will be better as a sophomore. Locking up your tackle spots is really outstanding. Pay attention to Lorenzo Waters at safety. I have heard raves about him.

Irish Loop (New Haven, CT)

Hey, Andrea! So glad the chats are back on again. It was a long, dark summer of bad news for the Big East, but hey... each fall brings new promise.How far are my Huskies away from being BE Contender? If the O-line holds up (an admittedly huge if) and Whitmer is a minor upgrade at QB, can this team contend?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:40 PM)

Hey thanks for coming back! I have said for a while now that UConn is a darkhorse contender for me. I think the defense has a chance to be great. I have not seen much on Whitmer, but you have to figure he is an upgrade. OL and DL have got to have their questions answered, though.

Chris (Hartford)

Andrea - You're comparing apples to oranges. When LSU and Oregon play a Neutral site game at Cowboy Stadium it's part of a kickoff classic type game where neither team loses a home game on their schedule.What Notre Dame and UConn are suggesting (from my understanding) is a UConn home game at a neutral site.It sets a bad precedent if UConn is willing to abandon The Rent because they can make a few extra bucks in New Jersey.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:41 PM)

Why does it set a bad precedent? Wouldn't you rather your program have more national exposure and more $$ in its pockets? I am not suggesting UConn do this for all its games, but if it's for a marquee opponent where they can get more $ and more exposure for the program what is so bad about that? I have had the same argument with Syracuse fans, btw.

Melissa (Nebraska)

HELLO! 23 days until kickoff. Let the fun begin!!! :)

Andrea Adelson

  (4:42 PM)

HEY GAL! How about your Huskers this year??

Fisch (Charlotte)

Does Sunseri have enough confidence (I know he doesn't have the talent) to lead the Panthers this year? It can't be good that Savage is at practice outplaying him every day.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:43 PM)

I do not think it is much of a surprise to hear Savage is playing better. He has a better arm and presumably more potential. Sunseri cannot worry about that. Savage will never see the field this season. I think Sunseri managed the team extraordinarly well last year in the face of constant criticism from fans AND HIS HEAD COACH. I never saw him get his head down. We can go up and down on his issues. But I do not think lacking confidence is one.

John (Cincinnati)

AA, does adding John Williams (CMU transfer) help solidify the interior of the UC d-line?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:45 PM)

Well, it does not hurt that is for sure. I can tell you depth along the DL was one of Butch Jones' concerns going into camp. UC had a great rotation last year where the interior linemen did not have to take every snap in a game. Butch wants that to continue so adding Williams really, really helps.

Dave (Cincy)

Everyone has had no trouble telling people why UC wont win the big east again...how bout ya tell everyone why they will

Andrea Adelson

  (4:46 PM)

Coming next week, Dave. Watch out for our "Big East chances" series looking at 3 reasons why Team X will win the Big East, and 3 reasons why Team X will not win the Big East. New blog addition Matt Fortuna will be handling that, so be nice to him as he gets going helping me out this year!

UConnCrazed (Jesse) (Wolcott, CT)

Chris is making it sound like every home game will be at MetLife. It's going to be one game every few years or so due to the schedule being made so far in advance. It's a lot of exposure, it's a lot of money, and it's generally more interesting than playing Buffalo at the Rent. I mean VT and BSU didn't have to play at FedEx Field, but they chose to and neither of them are considered to be the caliber of Alabama, Oregon, LSU or Michigan. If they can get a big time program to come play at MetLife that's almost guaranteed national exposure on national TV.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:46 PM)

I definitely see your point.

Irish Loop (New Haven, CT)

I know you probably can't/won't answer this, but shouldn't the Omsbudsman have something to say about the sudden push for a "Big Five" conference as soon as the Big East is about to start negotiations with a non-ESPN entity?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:47 PM)

OK let me set you guys straight on this point. This whole "Big Five" conference thing is coming from the CONFERENCE COMMISSIONERS. Go back and read their quotes and tell me where else you think this notion is coming from, you guys.

Fisch (Charlotte)

Any truth to the rumor that you will be joining HD next year as an ACC blogger?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:48 PM)

I will be juggling multiple responsibilities this year, Fisch. ACC and Big East.

green1us (trenton,nj)

Sorry about my writing if anything is unclear but on limited time. I know I am jumping the gun on this but it just a thought I have. Do you think that players out of the big east are having an impact on the NFL enough for teams to draft players from our conference? Oops go to go.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:49 PM)

Well, Big East players have been drafted into the NFL for quite some time, and have had good results so I am not sure what has changed in your eyes.

BullDoug (TX)

What's your impression of the USF Bulls running game referring to starting RB, OL strength and depth for both?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:51 PM)

I think the OL is one of the better groups in the Big East. There seems to be some good depth there, but now we need to see if Lindsey Lamar can provide the true playmaking ability USF wants to see out of the RB position. Murray is as steady as they come but he is not going to hit you for a 20-yard gash on a consistent basis. That is just not the type of runner he is. I think the potential is there for good production.

Rett (Oregon)

What do you make of Kentucky returning their ticket allotment for the UL game?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:51 PM)

I think it tells you all you need to know about how UK Fans feel about their football program right now.

Chris (Hartford)

Agree to disagree on neutral site "home" games, Andrea. Still a little ticked off that half of UConn's "Home" basketball games are played 30 miles away from campus at the Hartford Civic Center, so this stings even more. That said, you're dead on about UConn being a dark horse. Defense will be tenacious, McCombs will be a beast and for the first time since I was in school 7 years ago we have a QB that doesn't look like he was lifted from nearby E.O. Smith High School.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:52 PM)

Great last line!

TxCardsFan (John) (Dallas)

Would you agree that Rutgers, Louisville, USF, and UConn will likely have the best defense in the Big East? If not, who would you say round out the Top 4?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:52 PM)

Hands down, though I think UConn ahead of USF. That would be my top 4.

Dan (Philly, PA)

Do you think the Temple Owls finish in the basement of the Big East? I think that spot belongs to UCONN.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:53 PM)

I did pick Temple last.

Dave (San Diego)

Hi A.A.! Love your coverage, you know your stuff. We are a year away from a totally new look BE with all the new schools coming in and there is still a lot up in the air. There seems to be rumors that the big 12 may consider BSU and SDSU for football only, mostly from questionable internet sources. What do you think the chances are that these 2 schools don't end up in the BE next season?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:54 PM)

Just remember the source when you see some of these rumors. I still think Boise and San Diego State play in the BE in 2013.

TxCardsFan (John) (Dallas)

Jerry Palm's latest bowl predictions had Louisville vs. Bama in the Sugar Bowl. What do you think about that possibility?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:55 PM)

I think it would be great for the Big East! I would not be surprised to see it happen, because I think Louisville wins the Big East. It is a geographically nice matchup, you have Charlie Strong vs. the SEC. I like it.

Bobert (Utah)

A.A. Can you remind Teddy Heisman that Savage and the Sophmore year did not work out so well. He might want to temper his expectations.

Andrea Adelson

  (4:55 PM)

There you go, Teddy Heisman.

John (Cincinnati)

Since the Big East has many good defenses in 2012, is the Big East champ determined by best QB play?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:56 PM)

I think think the Big East is a defensive league this year. You obviously always need good QB play to win, but it is not as if there is a Geno Smith in the BE this year like there was last year. UC and UL won a share of the Big East last year in part because of their Ds.

Richard (California)

Do all teams in the Big East run some version of the Spread Offense?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:57 PM)

Pitt, Rutgers and UConn are more traditional offenses. Syracuse will try to employ more spread techniques this year.

TxCardsFan (John) (Dallas)

TEDDY HEISMAN!a?¢ is no Tom Savage! He's better and more mature than Savage was back then. You'll see. Teddy's graph will only be on an upward trajectory from year to year.... culminating in his acceptance speech after they hand him his award in a year or two (or both). :)

Andrea Adelson

  (4:57 PM)

I love you, Teddy Heisman!

Rett (Oregon)

Is the Big East going to try and negotiate a Bowl tie-in? or are they going to "leave their options open"?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:58 PM)

They say they are working on it, but do not expect it to be with one of the current BCS bowl games.

Mark (NJ)

Rutgers and USF will be a huge game early in the season, what's your take on it?

Andrea Adelson

  (4:59 PM)

I am pumped for that game, in Week 3! It is going to be tough on USF having to play a mid-week game after a trip to the West Coast the week before, while Rutgers comes in off a game against Howard. But I think it will do USF well to have a major BE game early in the season to get them focused and prepared. I am not making predictions until Week 3, though!

Bobert (Utah)

Knew he'd bite...

Jay (Rutgers)

I think these other teams need to know the difference between a 'good' defense and what Rutgers will be putting on the field this year. Hope you have good insurance TEDDY HEISMAN.

Kevin (Washington, DC)

Do you think that this year's Big East champ will be 12-0/11-1 or do you think it will be closer to 9-3/8-4?

Andrea Adelson

  (5:00 PM)

I am hopeful the Big East champ will be 10-2 or better!

BullDoug (TX)

Why do you pick UCONN's D at No. 3 and USF D at No. 4? USF's starting 3 LBs are the second best group in the BE. Whats the major diff? Dline or DBs? Depth?

Andrea Adelson

  (5:01 PM)

UConn has some pretty excellent LBs as well. It is close, but I am giving UConn the edge -- returning leading sack man in Trevardo Williams one of the top CBs in the league in Blidi Wreh-Wilson. Sio Moore vastly underrated.

Andrea Adelson

  (5:02 PM)

OK guys, great to chat with you again! Join me again next week!